U.S. U-20 MNT Drops Opening Match of Dallas Cup to Mexico

The U.S. U-20 Men's National Team, down to 10 men after a first-half red card to defender Chad Barson, dropped a 1-0 decision to Mexico in the opening match of Dallas Cup in Frisco, Texas.

Barson's send off also resulted in a penalty just before halftime, but U.S. goalkeeper Zac MacMath was up to the task, denying the goal with an excellent diving save to his left. Mexico eventually broke through the American defense, with Taufic Guarch heading home a corner kick for the game's lone goal.

In the 89th minute, the U.S. had their best chance of the game, as team captain Dillon Powers sent an excellent corner into the box and found Amobi Okugo. Okugo, who had made his professional debut just three days earlier, cleanly headed the ball but it smacked off the crossbar.

Thomas Rongen's side will look to regroup as it continues Dallas Cup play on Monday against the Vancouver Whitecaps. The final group match will come against Eintracht Frankfurt on Wednesday, March 31.